Jennifer Vogel

What's the biggest payment you make every month? If you’re a renter, it's probably your rent. But did you know that you can pay your rent on time, every time, for years, and it may never show up in your credit history? It's pretty frustrating, especially if you'd like to buy a home someday and you’re trying to build your credit.The good thing is that’s changing right now. Here’s what you need to Continue Reading about The Biggest Credit Hurdle for Renters Who Want To Buy

If you’ve seen headlines saying home sales are slowing down, you may be wondering: is this really a good time to sell?While the latest numbers show sales picked up slightly in September, they're still down compared to last year. But here’s the perspective the headlines can miss.Homes are still selling every single day. Because no matter what’s happening with mortgage rates or the economy, life Continue Reading about Homes Are Still Selling – Even in a Slower Market

Mortgage rates being back above 7% isn't exactly the news most people wanted. But it’s changing the market in ways that matter whether you’re buying or selling. The number of homes for sale is growing faster than it was this time last year. And interestingly, the main reason isn’t a flood of new listings. It’s because homes aren’t selling as quickly.Here’s why – and what that means if you’re Continue Reading about Why There are More Homes for Sale Right Now (and What It Means for You)

With everything going on, it’s understandable if you’re wondering if you’d regret buying right now. Everyday expenses cost more. Mortgage rates are higher than you’d like. And when the economy feels uncertain, taking on a mortgage can feel like a much bigger leap. But here’s some perspective that may help…Most people who already made that leap would do it again.According to a recent survey from Continue Reading about Why Most People Are Still Glad They Bought a Home

You've spent years making your house feel like home, celebrating milestones, making each room your own, and turning neighbors into friends. As you look ahead to the next chapter of your life, it's natural to wonder if this is still the place you want to spend it.Whether you're leaning toward staying in your house as you get older or moving to a 55+ community, the goal is the same: a home that fits Continue Reading about Renovate or Relocate? What To Know Before You Decide To Age in Place

You've probably heard the Federal Reserve (the Fed) is raising rates again. And if you're planning to buy or sell a house, you may be wondering what that means for you.With all the headlines, it’s easy to think the Fed sets mortgage rates. That’s actually a common myth. But the Fed’s decisions can still have an impact on them.So, where does that leave you? The next few months could get a little Continue Reading about Myth vs. Reality: Does the Fed Control Mortgage Rates?

For a lot of first-time buyers, owning a home can feel perpetually a few years out of reach. Saving for a down payment takes time, and each year you spend renting can make owning feel further off.But buying your first home doesn’t have to happen to feel like a far away goal. Two choices you control can bring your first home years closer, even with affordability as tight as it is right now.How Long Continue Reading about Two Moves That Can Get You Into Your First Home Sooner

Higher mortgage rates don't just affect buyers. They can change what it takes to sell your house, too.That's because today's buyers are paying close attention to affordability. And when rates rise, even a relatively small change can make a noticeable difference in their monthly payment. So, they're looking for ways to make the numbers work. And in some markets, new construction is giving them Continue Reading about What Higher Mortgage Rates Mean for Home Sellers